CVE-2019-11675 : What You Need to Know

In the Debian packaging of the Groonga HTTP server, a vulnerability exists in the groonga-httpd package version 6.1.5-1. This flaw allows local users to potentially gain root access through a symlink attack. The issue arises from incorrect ownership settings on the /var/log/groonga directory, leading to insecure interactions with logrotate.

Understanding CVE-2019-11675

This CVE entry highlights a security vulnerability in the Debian packaging of the Groonga HTTP server.

What is CVE-2019-11675?

The groonga-httpd package version 6.1.5-1 for Debian incorrectly sets ownership on the /var/log/groonga directory, potentially enabling local users to escalate privileges through a symlink attack.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11675

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to exploit a race condition and create a symlink from /var/log/groonga/httpd to /etc/bash_completion.d, potentially leading to unauthorized root access.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11675

This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The groonga-httpd package 6.1.5-1 for Debian improperly assigns ownership to the /var/log/groonga directory, creating a security loophole that could be exploited by local users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate logrotate interactions, creating a symlink from /var/log/groonga/httpd to /etc/bash_completion.d, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-11675 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor system logs for any suspicious symlink activities.
Restrict access to sensitive directories to authorized users only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement least privilege principles to limit user access rights.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the groonga-httpd package is updated to a secure version to mitigate the vulnerability.